The promotion is one of 80 ordered this week by Russian President
Vladimir Putin among officers of the military, the police, the
prosecution, the investigative committee, customs and other law
enforcement agencies.

Poklonskaya’s rank was raised form chief justice councilor to
state justice councilor 3rd class, which corresponds to a
promotion from colonel to major general in the Russian military
or the police force.

Her previous promotion came in March 2014, days after being
appointed acting chief prosecutor of Crimea by the prosecutor
general. The appointment was made permanent two months later.

Poklonskaya, 35, rose to
global prominence during the turbulent secession of Crimea from
Ukraine and reunification with Russia. At a media conference she
spoke up for rebellious local authorities, denounced the armed
coup in Kiev and declared Crimea’s refusal to submit to the new
Ukrainian authorities. Her harsh words and stern expression
contrasted greatly with her cute blond appearance and unusual
voice, sparking an instant internet meme.

She is among the public figures, who were personally slapped with
travel and financial sanctions by the European Union for her role
in the fateful events. In Ukraine she is wanted for conspiracy to
overthrow lawful authorities.

Crimea rebelled against the coup-imposed authorities in Kiev,
which took power after ousting President Viktor Yanukovich in
February 2014. Local residents voted overwhelmingly for breaking
away from Ukraine and requested Russia to take Crimea under its
sovereignty, which was granted in March.

Kiev and its foreign backers consider the move illegal and
imposed through force. However, Moscow insists it was a proper
execution of Crimea’s right for self-determination, as stated in
the UN Charter.